Brock’s Office of Human Rights and Equity Services is inviting the University community to learn about the results of the Assessment of Learning, Living and Working Environment at Brock.

Rankin & Associates will release their findings at a virtual presentation on Thursday, Oct. 29 at 2 p.m. The findings are gathered from the responses of the more than 3,000 Brock community members who answered the assessment between March and May 2020.

The Climate Study Working Group (CSWG) began working with Rankin & Associates in October 2019 to develop and roll out a survey which addressed questions such as What makes our campus welcoming? What can we do better? And how can we affirm and strengthen a community of inclusion and respect?

Brock President Gervan Fearon said at the time, “The goals of the project are to identify successful initiatives, uncover any challenges facing members of our community, and develop strategies that build on the successes and address the challenges. It is our chance to make a difference in Brock’s future and implement positive, lasting changes that will help create a more inclusive campus.”

Associate Professor Margot Francis, a member of the CSWG, said the climate survey “provides Brock with crucial data on the challenges facing the University community based on a first-ever large-scale survey of students, staff and faculty.

“This data will enable us to develop an action plan to ensure improvements in areas that range from student retention, to addressing racism on campus, to ensuring a better work environment for staff,” she said.

The report is available on the survey website and comments and questions can be sent in until Friday, Oct. 23 in advance of the virtual presentation on Oct. 29. Questions can be asked during the presentation.

“This is a deep dive into the lived environment for all members of the Brock community,” said Assessment Co-Chair Leela MadhavaRau, Director of Human Rights and Equity. “The report reveals our successes and challenges. We look forward to receiving suggestions from the Brock community that will form the foundation for moving forward.”

The public presentation will take place on Lifesize. For those who would like questions answered during the public presentation, there will be a link on the report page.

Following the presentation, a series of online community forums will be held during which participants will develop action items from the survey findings.